By Phozisa Nciya
Despite being at the forefront of energy development, the nuclear industry worldwide has long struggled with gender representation. The IAEA statistics show that women make up less than 25% of the total nuclear workforce globally, and in South Africa, the situation is equally concerning. However, government leaders, educational institutions, and community advocates are making concerted efforts to encourage more women to join the field as the nuclear industry’s future will depend heavily on developing a diverse talent pool.
South Africa is the only country on the African continent to harness nuclear energy. Koeberg NPP remains a crucial part of South Africa’s energy mix, contributing a significant portion of the country’s low-carbon electricity. However, the power station is nearing the end of its lifecycle, and work to extend its operational life by several decades is in progress. In addition, South Africa has set ambitious goals to expand its nuclear capacity, with discussions surrounding the development of new reactors as a part of the country’s Integrated Resource Plan.
This expansion is seen vital for addressing the country’s ongoing energy shortages and reducing its reliance on coal. However, as South Africa looks to scale up its nuclear infrastructure, the need for a larger, more skilled workforce becomes increasingly apparent. This workforce must include talented women if South Africa is to successfully achieve its energy goals. Women’s inclusion in the sector is not just a matter of representation but an important condition for driving innovation, fostering diverse perspectives, and ensuring that South Africa’s nuclear industry remains competitive on the global stage.
At a recent event in Johannesburg celebrating women’s contributions to various energy sectors, South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy Kgosientsho Ramokgopa highlighted the persistent gender gap in traditionally male-dominated fields like nuclear energy. While women have made significant strides in many professions, the nuclear industry remains resistant to change. Ramokgopa noted that South African women continue to face challenges, including unequal treatment, lack of access to career development opportunities, and insufficient resources. This was echoed in a similar message delivered by the Minister during a nuclear energy workshop in Pretoria, where he called for increased promotion of nuclear careers to girls and young women.
These discussions underline the South African government’s growing awareness of the importance of building a more inclusive and diverse work space in the nuclear sector. As the country seeks to expand its nuclear energy capabilities, it is clear that addressing gender inequality will be a key factor in ensuring the long-term success of the industry.
For women in South Africa’s nuclear industry to achieve true equality, a range of obstacles must be addressed. In many cases, women face workplace neglect and discrimination, which hinders their ability to thrive in the field. Access to mentorship, professional development resources, and equal pay remain critical issues. Without concrete steps to improve these conditions, the industry risks losing out on a wealth of untapped potential.
South African public figures such as Princess Mthombeni, founder of Africa4Nuclear, argue that industry leaders should look to international examples for guidance. For instance, in 2020, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) developed a five-year plan aimed at achieving gender equality within the nuclear industry. Mthombeni believes that South Africa must set specific goals to attract more women into the sector, ensuring they are provided with the resources and support needed to advance in their careers.
South Africa is not alone in its efforts to address gender inequality in nuclear energy. Many international organisations have recognised the need for gender diversity in the industry and have launched initiatives aimed at empowering women to take on leadership roles. The IAEA’s Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programmes are designed to support female students and professionals pursuing careers in nuclear science and technology. These programmes provide financial aid and mentorship opportunities helping women gain the skills they need to succeed in the industry. Another notable example is the International Summer Technology School, a programme that encourages girls from across the globe to pursue careers in nuclear technology under the auspices of Rosatom. By embracing these international initiatives, South Africa can help bridge the gender gap in its nuclear industry and ensure that women are given equal opportunities to contribute to the country’s energy future.
Education remains a central factor in empowering women within the nuclear industry. Providing young women with access to specialised training, scholarships, and mentorship programmes will be essential to achieving gender equality in the sector. South Africa’s educational institutions, in collaboration with international partners, should continue to prioritise STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education for girls, emphasising the diverse career opportunities available in nuclear energy.
South African universities and technical colleges can also play a crucial role by offering more programmes and scholarships tailored to women pursuing careers in nuclear technology. Collaborative efforts with international organisations like the IAEA and Rosatom will help South African women gain exposure to global best practices and build the confidence needed to excel in this highly technical field.
The nuclear industry holds enormous potential for South Africa’s energy future, but this potential will only be fully realised if the sector embraces diversity and inclusivity. By supporting women in nuclear energy, South Africa can tap into a broader talent pool and drive innovation in ways that were previously unimaginable.
Promoting gender equality is not just a matter of fairness — it is a strategic imperative. Women bring unique perspectives and skills that can help the nuclear industry navigate the challenges of the 21st century, from improving safety standards to advancing new technologies. By creating an environment where women can thrive, South Africa can ensure the sustainability and growth of its nuclear industry for generations to come.
* Phozisa Nciya, Deputy Executive Chairperson SAYNPS and member of WINSA.
** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.